Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake is a simple and comforting dish that combines tender chicken breasts with flavorful stuffing, all baked together in one dish. The stuffing gets nice and crispy on top while staying moist underneath, pairing perfectly with juicy pieces of chicken. It’s a hassle-free meal that feels both homey and satisfying.
I love making this dish on busy weeknights because it doesn’t require a lot of hands-on time, but still feels like a special dinner. I usually use a boxed stuffing mix to keep things quick, and the whole family enjoys the mix of textures and flavors. It’s one of those meals that tastes like a hug on a plate.
One of my favorite ways to serve this bake is with a simple side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad to add some brightness to the meal. Leftovers are great for lunches too, just pop them in the oven or microwave for a quick warm-up. This dish always reminds me of cozy family dinners and easy comfort food that’s perfect any time of year.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: I use boneless, skinless breasts for easy cutting and even cooking. You can swap with thighs if you want juicier meat and a bit more flavor.
Stuffing mix: Boxed stuffing makes this recipe quick. Cornbread or herb varieties both work well. You can also use homemade stuffing for a fresher taste.
Cream of chicken soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you prefer, try cream of mushroom or make a simple white sauce to keep it from being too rich.
Sour cream: This is optional, but I like it for a richer, tangy flavor. Greek yogurt can be an easy substitute.
Butter: Melting butter and drizzling it over the stuffing helps create a nice golden top. Olive oil can work if you want a lighter option.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Tender and the Stuffing Crispy?
Balancing juicy chicken and crispy stuffing takes a little care. Here’s how I do it:
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly and quickly.
- Mix chicken with the creamy sauce well to keep it moist throughout baking.
- Prepare stuffing separately with broth for more flavor, then sprinkle on top rather than mixing it in.
- Drizzle melted butter on the stuffing before baking to help it get golden and crispy on top.
- Bake uncovered—this lets moisture escape and crisp up the stuffing while cooking chicken through.
- Use a meat thermometer to check chicken reaches 165°F, so it’s safe but still tender.
- Let it rest a few minutes after baking so juices redistribute and the bake firms up slightly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for cooking chicken and stuffing evenly in one pan.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll use these to combine the sauce and prepare the stuffing separately.
- Measuring cups and spoons – handy for accurate soup, broth, and seasoning amounts.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for mixing without scratching your bowls or dish.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check the chicken is cooked perfectly and safe to eat.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you want juicier, more flavorful meat that stays tender.
- Stir in cooked mushrooms or sautéed onions for added depth and extra veggies.
- Top the stuffing with shredded cheddar or mozzarella before baking for a melty cheesy crust.
- Add fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to the stuffing mix for a fragrant boost that’s great in fall.
How to Make Easy Chicken and Stuffing Bake?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 box (6 oz) seasoned stuffing mix (such as cornbread or herb stuffing)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- ½ cup sour cream (optional for creaminess)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy dish needs about 10 minutes of prep time to chop and mix everything. Then, bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the stuffing is golden brown on top. After baking, let it rest a few minutes before serving. Total time is around 50-60 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix The Sauce and Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and sour cream (if using), and mix until smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then mix well. Stir the bite-sized chicken pieces into this sauce until they’re all coated.
3. Assemble The Bake:
Pour the chicken and sauce mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. In a separate bowl, prepare the stuffing mix following the package instructions—use chicken broth instead of water if you’d like extra flavor. Sprinkle the prepared stuffing evenly over the chicken mixture in the dish.
4. Add Butter and Bake:
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the stuffing to help it brown nicely while baking. Place the baking dish in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 40-45 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and that the stuffing is golden brown on top.
5. Rest and Serve:
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. If you want, sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme on top for a fresh, pretty touch. Serve warm with your favorite vegetables or a fresh salad.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick thaw method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging in cold water. Pat dry before mixing with the sauce.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bake a few hours in advance and refrigerate it uncovered. Bring it to room temperature before baking, then bake as usual. This makes it great for busy days or entertaining.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Bake?
Yes, adding veggies like diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms can boost flavor and nutrition. Sauté them before mixing with the chicken and sauce to remove excess moisture and ensure they cook through.
